Why Does India Celebrate Republic Day with a Military Parade?

The Republic Day parade in New Delhi stands as a significant symbol for most Indians, showcasing both the country's military strength and its diverse culture. While the parade is a grand display featuring elaborate floats, marching bands, drone shows, and a patriotic atmosphere, the question arises: What does a military parade have to do with commemorating the promulgation of the Constitution?

The historical connection between public displays of military might and national pride can be traced back to ancient times. Rulers throughout generations projected their power through impressive showcases of strength, as seen in friezes from ancient Mesopotamia depicting triumphant kings. These displays aimed to boost the ruler's prestige and establish political authority. Through the sacred Gate of Ishtar in Babylon, returning warrior kings would march into the city down a passage flanked by 60 giant lion statues on either side, with murals of the gods smiling upon them. As nation-states emerged, military parades in 19th century Europe became symbols of national identity and collective fervour.

During the British Raj, royal parades projected British power in India and globally. After gaining independence, India continued some British traditions, including the military parade. The first Republic Day parade in 1950 marked the official implementation of the new constitution, and leaders saw it as a day of victory against colonial rule. The military parade became an integral part of Republic Day celebrations, symbolizing the strength of the new sovereign republic.

Led by then Brigadier Moti Sagar of the Gorkha Regiment, that first Republic Day parade saw the President of Indonesia Sukarno as the chief guest. The flypast of that parade included aircraft such as Harvards, Consolidated B-24 Liberators, Dakotas, Hawker Tempest, Spitfires and jet planes comprising a total of more than a hundred aircraft.

Over the years, the parade has evolved and grown grander. The shift from the Irwin Amphitheatre to Rajpath marked an increase in scale and a reimagining of colonial symbols as national images. From the erstwhile Viceroy’s house to the memorial for British Indian soldiers that we know today as India Gate, over time, these colonial creations underwent a process of “Indianisation” as their colonial associations were systematically pushed out of the public consciousness and a new meaning was provided to them.

The annual parade now starts at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, proceeds along Kartavya Path, and passes India Gate. Before the commencement of the parade, the Prime Minister lays a floral wreath at the National War Memorial (previously at the Amar Jawan Jyoti memorial) which is followed by two minutes of silence in memory of India's fallen soldiers. Thereafter, the prime minister reaches the main dais at the venue to join other dignitaries.

The inclusion of non-military elements, such as iconic tableaux representing India's diverse culture, has further enriched the event. In the 1950s and 1960s, there were still significant tensions between India and many of its states, mainly due to linguistic differences and fears of cultural imposition. The tableaux showing various states were introduced as a way to celebrate India’s differences while espousing a coherent national identity.

The Republic Day parade serves as a symbolic affirmation of India's identity as a powerful republic and aims to convey a message to the world about the country's capabilities. The choice of foreign dignitaries as chief guests reflects India's diplomatic relations, and the parade's non-military elements highlight the unity in diversity that defines the nation. Overall, the parade remains a tribute to India's cultural heritage and a celebration of its unity amidst diversity.